How did you get involved in pageants?
I got involved in pageants while in college. During high school, I was involved in a number of activities including cheer leading, swim team and various organizations and kept very busy. While in college, I found that there were not as many activities available and found myself wanting to be involved in something positive where I could work hard, set goals, and meet a lot of amazing people. Pageants was a great outlet to do that.
If your friends were to describe you, what would they say?
My friends would describe me as a person who is very focused, extremely loyal and great comic relief!
Define self-confidence.
Self-confidence is being able to be comfortable with oneself and one's abilities. It is not only self-respect, but also acceptance of who you are in your own skin – and being okay with that.
If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have three things with you, what would they be and why?
1. My iPad – you’re never alone as long as you’re connected. Skyping with my family, friends, and pets would be mandatory.
2. My Vitamix – because no matter what you put in there, it always comes out tasting delicious.
3. My Pilates equipment – because I’m addicted to Pilates.
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Name three things that you would never do.
1. Drugs
2. Compromise my character for personal gain
3. Become a pessimist
What makes you angry?
Seeing the commercial on TV with all the abused animals with the song “In the arms of an Angel” playing in the background. I get angry every time I see those poor neglected animals.
How do you handle a tactless person who makes his/her prejudices known in public?
I have learned that people like that are trying to attract negative attention. So I would pay them no mind.
If you could cure any disease, what would it be and why?
CANCER. I have been touched by this disease in so many ways it’s unbelievable. Unfortunately, my very best friend is currently in the fight of her life battling a very aggressive and rare type of cancer. I’m always recruiting for anyone who wants to join in on her prayer chain – her name is Taylor Jones.
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What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I can thank my mom for this one – “Remember that everyone puts their pants on one leg at a time.”
What does being an American mean to you?
As Americans, we are presented with endless opportunities, afforded to everyone, equally. Last summer, I watched a citizenship ceremony, and witnessed a number of people become Americans. Seeing and hearing their reactions, watching them give thanks, and celebrating in their joy reminded me that we are blessed to be part of such a great country.
Is it acceptable for titleholder who is religious to share her faith in public on appearances?
I do believe in our right to freedom of speech as well as expression. If one's faith is a very important part of who they are, then wouldn't it be dishonest of them to suppress that side in hopes of pleasing others? I admire people who can be themselves to the core and if their religion or faith is a part of that core then they should not hide it.
What do you think was the most important discovery during the last quarter century?
Personally, dry shampoo! I don't consider smartphones a discovery, but more so an invention, so globally speaking, I think we were all intrigued to discover that Pluto is no longer considered a planet.
What qualities do you think the perfect man should have?
Tall, dark and Croatian. And honesty. Honesty is very important.
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| WITH DESIGNER MAC DUGGAL |
What makes West Virginia unique from the other states?
The people! The people of West Virginia have a unique sincerity and genuineness about them that I have yet to find anywhere else. Example: I wrecked my car while traveling for work in a very rural area of southern WV (12 miles from the Hatfield and McCoy trails is what the sign I ran into said - to be exact) and I had no cell service. I hadn't had cell phone service for a good 40 minutes and I knew I was stuck between a rock and a hard place - literally. I started to panic as it started to rain, and just like a movie, a car approached slowly and rolled down the window and the kind West Virginians inside offered their help. I was towed out of the ditch, had my tire changed for me, was able to notify my family that I was okay as I was led to the nearest town to have my car fixed. That is something I feel is so inherent to the hard working, grateful and amazing people of my state. That's probably why I have never left here. John Denver said it best, "...almost heaven, West Virginia..."
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Why do you want to be the next Miss USA?
I think, like my fellow contestants, it's been a dream of mine from childhood. That's where the vision started. Now, though, as a pretty accomplished young woman, I feel I have so much to offer the Miss Universe Organization from a business & branding standpoint. I am a business woman, it's in my blood - both of my parents are business people; I think my ability to have a business sense while maintaining my unique, bubbly & down to earth self sets me apart. Women in this world are making great strides every day and I think it's so powerful to see a woman in a leadership position who can relate to so many people. I've worn many hats in my life & I wouldn't mind adding a crown to that collection. I'm READY to take the job as Miss USA and I think that's important.
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FLAG OF WEST VIRGINIA
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PHOTO CREDITS: BENIZO, CHARISSE HAISLOP